From the Rolls-Royce experimental archive: a quarter of a million communications from Rolls-Royce, 1906 to 1960's. Documents from the Sir Henry Royce Memorial Foundation (SHRMF).
The design and performance modifications of the 'Corniche' Bentley Saloon.
Identifier | ExFiles\Box 98\5\ scan0088 | |
Date | 21th August 1939 | |
400C W/S. To Bkl. from Rm{William Robotham - Chief Engineer}/NRC.{N. R. Chandler} Rm{William Robotham - Chief Engineer}/NRC.{N. R. Chandler}9/MH.{M. Huckerby}21.8.39. "CORNICHE" BENTLEY SALOON. The body of the "Corniche" is designed to reduce wind resistance without sacrificing the width of the seats or the room inside the body, but by reason of its aerodynamic properties, a given power will propel it at a higher speed, or if driven at the same speed, the petrol consumption is reduced. A higher gear ratio is provided so that the higher speed available can be obtained without over-revving the engine. A special shape of 18-gallon petrol tank enables the spare wheel to be carried flat in the bottom of the boot, with ample accommodation for luggage above. Slightly stiffer rear springs are fitted and the shock absorbers are adjusted to provide slightly more damping. Modifications have been made to the power plant to increase output and a hand ignition control provided to enable the driver to avoid detonation when inferior fuels only are available. A special high efficiency duplex exhaust system is fitted, and a number of specially lightened parts have been incorporated in the chassis. These include lightened frame, flywheel, suspension parts etc. The rear axle design has been modified to enable weight to be saved on the hubs. For customers who wish to indulge in sustained speeds in excess of 95 m.p.h. a high speed tyre has been developed. In addition to increased performance obtained by the modifications enumerated, increased economy of operation has been achieved which is available if the car is driven at ordinary touring speeds. Rm{William Robotham - Chief Engineer}/NRC.{N. R. Chandler} | ||